Abe & Jake’s fireworks-viewing party to benefit local nonprofit

Abe & Jake’s Landing will celebrate Independence Day this year with something truly American: charity.

The private rental venue at 8 E. Sixth St. has teamed up with the Lawrence Busker Festival, Mr. Bacon BBQ and local radio stations 92.9, 105.9 and 1320 to throw a fireworks-viewing party benefiting Ballard Community Services, a nonprofit organization that provides early education programs and assistance for needy families.

Mike Logan, who acquired Abe & Jake's in January, says this will be the first time in about six years the space will be open to the public on the Fourth of July.

“Abe & Jake’s is right on the river and the fireworks go off just over the bridge,” Logan said. “We have the perfect vantage point, so I hope we can make this an annual event.”

Starting at 5:30 p.m., partygoers can enjoy a live DJ, barbecue and the holiday’s festivities in the cool air-conditioning. The Ballard Center will provide games and a “bounce house” for children.

Logan says he hopes the event will not only raise funds for the Ballard Center but also bring the community together.

“I love people coming downtown and I want to give them the opportunity to enjoy this space,” Logan said. “Families can come down and the kids can play while Mom and Dad can have a glass of wine. We just thought this would be the perfect place for the Fourth.”

The event will conclude with the city's fireworks display that's expected to begin around 9:45 p.m., which attendees can view from Abe & Jake’s sprawling porch area.